The Elder Scrolls Online has finally introduced a much-anticipated feature that fans have been eagerly awaiting for over a decade: the addition of subclasses to the game. Dive in to discover how this new system works and what future updates have in store for the game.
Elder Scrolls Online Direct Updates
Over 3000 Combinations of Skill Lines
As The Elder Scrolls Online (ESO) marks its 10th Anniversary, developer Zenimax Online Studios is set to roll out a series of exciting updates. During the ESO Direct 2025 event on April 10, the studio announced the long-awaited introduction of subclassing to the game.
For years, ESO players have voiced their desire for the ability to switch classes without starting over. The addition of new skill trees often meant beginning from scratch, which was particularly frustrating in an MMO context. Thankfully, the developers are addressing this with the introduction of subclasses, enabling players to mix and match skill lines without the need to reroll their characters.
To utilize this new feature, players must first reach level 50. Once at this level, they can retain one skill line from their base class and swap out two of their skill lines with any from the other six available classes. This system opens up over 3000 different combinations, allowing players to truly tailor their gameplay to their preferred style.
ESO Game Director Rich Lambert expressed confidence in the new feature, noting that extensive testing has been conducted. He added that despite potential increases in Power Levels, the team is satisfied with the current balance.
Seasons of the Worm Cult
Moving forward, ZeniMax Online is adopting a seasonal approach to content delivery. Studio Director Matt Firor highlighted that this shift will allow for more experimental content and quicker responses to player feedback.
"We want to keep telling great stories, but also mix in new ideas and gameplay systems, and that's exactly what we're going to do, but we'll do this in a different cadence, one that allows us, the developers, to broaden our focus and increase variety," Firor explained.
The next chapter in ESO's saga is titled "Seasons of the Worm Cult," a long-awaited sequel to the game's initial Molag Bal storyline. This chapter introduces a new zone, the Isle of Solstice, where players will delve into the resurgence of the Worm Cult.
Producer Susan Kath noted that while the Seasons of the Worm Cult will span most of the year, future seasons will generally last between 3 to 6 months. Zenimax plans to introduce "remix" seasons that revisit and expand upon previous storylines, teasing a future Dark Brotherhood-themed season.
2025 Content Pass and Premium Edition
ESO announced via Twitter (X) on April 11 the launch of a new content pass and premium edition, encompassing all past and future releases. The content pass includes:
- Fallen Banners dungeon pack - Available now
- Seasons of the Worm Cult Part 1 - Launching June 2 for PC/Mac and June 18 for Xbox and PlayStation consoles
- The Writhing Wall in-game event - Scheduled for Q3/4 2025
- Feast of Shadows dungeon pack - Set for Q3 2025
- Seasons of the Worm Cult Part 2 - Coming in Q4 2025
Both the Content Pass and Premium Edition will also feature unique collectibles:
- Skulltooth Coastal Durzog mount
- Golden Eagle pet
- Remnant of Meridia's Light memento
Additionally, those purchasing either edition will receive a unique mount, pet, and memento upon the release of Seasons of the Cult Part 1 in June.
For a limited time, ESO is offering Early Purchase rewards, available until May 7, including the Mages Guild Recall customized action. Other rewards include:
- 10-Year Lion Guard Steed mount
- 10-Year Anniversary Mudcrab pet
- Shell-Tide Beach emote pack
These rewards are available until June 2 for PC and June 18 for Xbox and PlayStation consoles.
The Premium Edition grants access to all previously released Chapters and Classes, from Morrowind to Gold Road, and includes base-game Classes as well as the Warden, Necromancer, and Arcanist.
With the celebration of its 10th anniversary, ESO is set to expand its rich history and engage its supportive community further. By revisiting past storylines, Zenimax aims to complete unfinished narratives and deepen the game's lore. The Elder Scrolls Online is available on PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC.